Definitive IMRT for Stage III Thymic Carcinoma: A Brief Report and Literature Review

Front Oncol. 2016 Oct 24:6:219. doi: 10.3389/fonc.2016.00219. eCollection 2016.

Abstract

Introduction: Thymic carcinoma is a rare malignancy often presenting at an advanced stage. Radiation therapy and chemotherapy are often the only treatment options available to physicians.

Methods: A 70-year-old man presented with an unresectable stage III thymic tumor and was treated with 45 Gy in 25 fractions followed by a boost of 21.6 Gy in 12 fractions. He was also treated with bortezomib for multiple myeloma unrelated to his primary malignancy.

Results: The patient made a full recovery following the radiation regimen and remained disease free 4 years after the treatment.

Conclusion: Exclusive treatment with intensity-modulated radiation therapy provides a viable treatment option for patients presenting with advanced stage thymic carcinoma.

Keywords: chemotherapy; definitive IMRT; radiation therapy; thoracic cancer; thymic carcinoma.

Publication types

  • Case Reports